The company started producing art supplies in 1557 and continues to make art supplies today, which should say something about the quality of its products.Ĭheck pricing (amazon) Best multi-purpose sketchbook: Fabriano Hardcover Watercolor Journals It’s extremely affordable, but you’ll still get the Canson experience with every book. It is a great option for new artists who are just trying out watercolors. The artist series is inexpensive, but it doesn’t contain cotton. The book also comes with a removable bookmark that offers many helpful suggestions and tips that you can reference easily. However, if you choose to keep them in the book, be aware that the wire binding isn’t the most travel-friendly choice for a watercolor sketchbook. Once you finish a piece, the pre-perforated sheets come out nicely so you can put your pictures wherever you want. The pages in both sizes give you 20 sheets of 140lb (300gsm) paper that can withstand multiple washes on each page. If you want to save even more money, you can get the softcover versions, although I wouldn’t recommend the wire-bound pads if you’re going to take your watercolor journal on the go.Ĭheck pricing (blick) Best for beginners: Canson Artist Series Watercolor BooksĬanson is a well-known brand for beginner artists and up, and it makes a pair of great watercolor sketchbooks that won’t break the bank.Ĭanson’s Artist Series allows you to pick two different sizes to help you create the type of images you want. The only downside is that the pages are cellulose and not cotton, but that also means that they are a little less expensive than other watercolor sketchbooks. The American company started providing quality art supplies way back in 1890, and it continues to produce for professional artists and hobbyists to this day. Strathmore is a well-known brand for artists. Read also: Watercolor pencils buyer’s guide The cold-press paper allows you to get really fine detail on each page. The sketchbooks come in three different sizes, and they vary in pages from 32 to 48, depending on the size. It allows you to work efficiently and still store your work safely in a beautiful, long-lasting journal. If you want a hardbound book that lays flat due to its Smyth-sewn binding, this book is the way to go. The Strathmore Hardbound 400 series uses 140lb (300gsm) weight paper that’s specifically designed for watercolors. With that in mind, here are my picks for the best watercolor sketchbooks and journals! Best overall: Strathmore Hardbound 400 Series Watercolor Art Journalįor beginners and intermediate artists, it’s hard to beat the value of Strathmore papers. But no matter what, you want a quality book that allows you to work on your art comfortably, whether you’re just starting classes or a seasoned artist. There are tons of watercolor sketchbooks on the market, so it’s important to do a little research into which one meets your needs. Plus, once you find a brand you like you can stick with it for years to come! Best watercolor sketchbooks and journals Thankfully, you can find watercolor sketchbooks that have each of these qualities in different configurations, so you can combine the features you want most. Rough paper is even more textured than cold-press, and it adds a really interesting effect to the finished piece. If you want to place multiple layers and get into finer detail, you will need the roughness of cold-press paper to grab and hold the paint. Hot-press is very smooth and ideal for precise brushwork and single layers. Just be aware that it won’t resist as much water or abrasion.įinally, you have to decide on a paper texture. ![]() Note that you can absolutely get away with 90lb paper, and save some money in the process. If you go lighter than 140gsm, expect some warping once the page dries, especially with washes. You will typically find 140lb (~300gsm) or higher paper in good watercolor sketchbooks. The heavier (and thicker) the paperweight, the less likely it is to warp. Read also: 100+ creative hobbies to try and how to get startedĮach book will also have a paperweight. Paper pulp can be handy to save some money (which is also important in a sketchbook), but nothing beats cotton for quality. For the best possible results, you’ll want 100% cotton paper. You’ll also probably want it to protect and show off your art well.Īnother key consideration is paper composition. It also helps to be durable, so you don’t get worried about bringing it with you when you go out. ![]() Choosing the wrong paper will have you fighting the page and is sure to end in frustration. There are many different factors you have to consider before you get one.Īnd for beginners, it’s even more critical that you work with a good paper. Check pricing (blick) How to choose the best watercolor sketchbook for youįor picky artists out there, it can be a little overwhelming to find the best watercolor sketchbook.
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